The slang dictionary : $b Etymological, historical and anecdotal

"The Slang Dictionary: Etymological, Historical and Anecdotal" by John Camden Hotten is a detailed exploration of slang from the 1800s. His book shines a light on the origins and changes in slang words across different groups of people. From common expressions to the secret language of outcasts, Hotten studies how slang reflects society and offers insight into the special meanings behind informal words and phrases. The work traces back the history of slang, showing how it changes with culture, while also pointing out how different dialects, signs, and symbols shape language among those living on the fringes of society. The book stresses that slang is a very complex form of communication, with its own rules, history, and contributions to a language and culture.